Rocket Fuel by Gino Wickman.
That book identified me clearly as an Integrator, the person who makes it happen.
The executor.
I wanted to know more.
This led me to Gino’s book Traction.
It has become fundamental knowledge for any COO or Senior Operations Leader.
Fast forward to the current day.
My business execution methodology was formed by cherry picking from the very best frameworks.
And a common theme for all our operators, they all know and can execute the principles outlined in Traction.
Another reason I like Traction.
It’s so prescriptive.
Very clear frameworks on how to run a business. They work.
Book nerd note. Gino references Scaling up by Verne Harnish and Good to Great by Jim Collins. They are also must reads for business owners.
Here were my key takeaways:
1. Vision
Make sure everyone sees the same dream, the same end goal. A company aligned behind a singular purpose and understanding of where it’s headed, and how it plans to get there, is a company poised for greatness.
2. People
Having a team that not only shares your vision and culture but possesses the skill and drive to bring it to life. You’ll see the term Right People (referring to culture fit) and Right Seats (gets it, wants it, has the capacity + skill to do it).
3. Data
Numbers don’t lie. Data serves as your compass, guiding decisions with the cold, hard truth of what’s working and what’s not.
4. Issues
Obstacles are but opportunities in disguise. The framework in this book equips leaders to identify, confront, and resolve issues efficiently, ensuring they don’t become impediments to growth.
5. Process
Consistency breeds excellence. The book establishes clear, repeatable processes that ensure every task is executed with precision, thereby elevating the overall performance of the company.
6. Traction
Progress is measured in steps, not leaps. Wickman defines traction as the disciplined, consistent effort to turn vision into reality, setting and achieving goals that keep the business moving forward, steadily, relentlessly.
Talk soon,
Lloyd
PS – Need some help getting Traction in your business? Let’s chat.